Old State Capitol gala will help refurbish grounds
The majestic chambers of the Louisiana’s Old State Capitol, 100 North Blvd., will come alive with music and merriment at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 17, as the historic building hosts “The Jewel of the State Gala.”
Proceeds will be used to complete a master plan to refurbish the building’s grounds, which were last updated 72 years ago by the Works Progress Administration.
“It is our vision to adapt this beautiful four-acre site into an outdoor classroom presenting the history of the building and its landscape as well as the unique ecology of the area in new and engaging ways,” said Old State Capitol director Mary Durusau. “This plan will give us the opportunity to reach new and larger audiences for many years to come.”
Old State Capitol leaders have teamed with nationally recognized landscape architects to create the master plan. Additional funding for the project has come from a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts and from generous private donations.
A highlight of the gala will be the raffling of a unique 18-karat, white gold and pavé diamond necklace that reflects the architectural design of the Old State Capitol. The necklace was donated by Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry. Raffle tickets are $50 and may be purchased in advance or at the gala. Raffle ticket holders need not be present to win.
Entertainment will be provided by crooner Ned Fasullo and the Fabulous Big Band Orchestra.
The Old State Capitol was completed in 1850. The Gothic-style building underwent a large-scale restoration in the 1990s and today is an award-winning museum of political history. The Old State Capitol Foundation was formed in 1994 to support the restoration and preservation of the building and site and to help the public learn about Louisiana history and the democratic process through exhibitions, educational outreach and the arts.
Tickets are $125 per individual, $200 per couple and $50 for each attendee younger than 35 years old. For tickets or more information, call (225) 342-0500 or visit http://www.louisianaoldstatecapitol.org.
The Old State Capitol Foundation